Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall came face-to-face with an unexpected guest in the royal box at the Royal Variety Performance. As they took their seats at the London Palladium, the couple were left speechless as Dame Edna Everage made a surprise appearance.

To great laughter from the audience and the fun-loving royals, the beloved Australian character suddenly appeared in the royal box and sat down next to Charles and Camilla. Looking at her ticket, she joked, “I’m so sorry, they found me a better seat!”

They then took their seats to watch as the evening kicked off with a lively performance from Take That front man Gary Barlow, who sang Greatest Day and Let Me Go.

Liverpudlian comedian John Bishop was given the honour of hosting this year’s Royal Variety Performance, which incorporates the best of British music, dance and comedy.

The evening included appearances from Jesse, who sang her latest single Thunder, the cast of musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Mary J Blige, jazz musician Carol Emerald and Britain’s Got Talent winners Attraction.